Standard Five
A school administrator is an eduational leader who promotes the success of all students by acting with integrity, fairness, and in an ethical manner.
Title: Leading by Listening
Questions:
1. How does a principal inspire others to solve their own problems?
2. How does a principal recognize and respect faculty, parents, and students?
THE ADMINISTRATOR FACILITATES PROCESSES AND ENGAGES IN ACTIVITIES THAT:
examines personal and professional values
demonstrates a personal and professional code of ethics
demonstrates values, beliefs, and attitudes that inspire others to higher levels of performance
serves as a role model
accepts responsibility for school operations
considers the impact of one’s administrative practices on others
uses the influence of the office to enhance the educational program rather than for personal gain
treats people fairly, equitably, and with dignity and respect
protects the rights and confidentiality of students and staff
demonstrates appreciation for and sensitivity to the diversity in the school community
recognizes and respects the legitimate authority of others
examines and considers the prevailing values of the diverse school community
expects that others in the school community will demonstrate integrity and exercise ethical behavior
opens the school to public scrutiny
fulfills legal and contractual obligations
applies laws and procedures fairly, wisely, and considerately
Description of the case:
Mrs. Sarah Gogetter's office is where many of the faculty, staff, and students within Small Town Consolidated School find their way when having a problem. Mrs. Gogetter understands the importance of listening carefully to those seeking her help. She realizes that it is not her job to solve every problem. Sometimes those who enter are upset and angry. Mrs. Gogetter listens empathetically and asks questions. Mrs. Gogetter often acts as a mediator between teachers and students, realizing that if she takes a particular side might alienate either the teacher or the student. She strives to help them find a common ground.
One such example was an incident between the yearbook advisor and the parent of a student who was not asked to be on the yearbook staff. The parent was upset and came to the school to meet with the teacher and the principal. Mrs. Gogetter listened to the parent, asked questions of both the teacher and the parent, allowed time for the teacher to respond to the parents comments. While this particular incident dissipated over time, the main problem was solved just by allowing the parent to vent and to have her frustrations acknowledged. The principal knew this parent was the type of parent that would find her peace just by stating what she thought. Mrs. Gogetter was supportive of the teacher in front of the parent, but later made suggestions on a better way to handle interviews for the staff.
Answers to the Questions
1. How does a principal inspire others to solve their own problems?
Principals can inspire others in many ways. First and foremost, through the modeling of ethical, nonjudgmental listening, a principal demonstrates her ability to deal with others through respect and dignity. She examines and considers both sides of an issue allows both sides to express their points of view and give an explanation of what they believe the problem it is. She acts as a mediator and allows for the two parties to try to come to an agreement on the issue at hand. She realizes that she does not have to solve every problem and by empowering others to come to their own conclusion, both parties may be more pleased with the outcome and will be more able to work together in the future.
2. How does a principal recognize and respect faculty, parents, and students?
The principal in this case study recognizes and respects those in the school community such as teachers, parents, and students by having an "open door" policy. If someone has a problem, I have always found that Mrs. Gogetter has time to listen. She offers advice if requested but often allow those who come to talk to her about issues to find their own solutions. She realizes that she cannot control every issue in the school and tries to get parties that have misunderstandings to come to reasonable solutions. One thing that really sticks out in mind that she has stated, "When I have a problem with someone, I tell them what the problem is. I don't hold grudges. Once I say my peace, I move on and don't worry about it anymore." She is definitely a good role model for others in how to hand your issues with others, moving on, and continuing to progress.
Evaluation of Leadership Style
The level of performance in this case study is accomplished. There are several reasons that I feel that the level of performance demonstrates the level of accomplished. First, the principal recognizes the importance of being a role model for others. A principal at the accomplished level clearly treats others fairly and with dignity and respect. Also, an accomplished principal expects that others in the school community will demonstrate integrity and exercise ethical behavior. She expressed her belief that the teacher acted responsibly and gave support to the teacher with the parent. While she empathized with the parent's point of view, the principal listened and allowed the two parties involved to come to an understanding. She realized that this parent was one who just wanted to be heard and her viewpoint acknowledged.
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